15 of Canada’s Most Popular National Historic Sites

Relatively speaking, Canada is one of the world’s youngest countries, as it officially became a nation back in 1867. However, it’s the second-biggest country on the globe in size and still has quite a rich and interesting history. It’s also home to 956 National Historic sites. These are some of the most popular ones along with the year they became designated by the country’s historian.

7. Bonsecours Market, Montreal, Quebec

This civic building was erected in the middle of the 19th century and was recognized in 1984. It was closed as a farmer’s market back in 1963 and was supposed to be demolished. However, it’s now used as a multi-purpose facility.

9. Rideau Canal, Ottawa, Ontario

Ottawa’s Rideau Canal was recognized back in 1925. It’s about 125 miles long and is popular with boaters in the summers. It features 45 locks, with most of them still being hand-operated. During the winters, a part of the canal in downtown Ottawa becomes the longest ice skating rink in the world.

10. Wanuskewin, Saskatchewan

Wanuskewin is a 140-acre native reserve that was recognized in 1986. There are many archaeological sites here that can be traced back as far as 6,000 years. It offers a lot of cultural history regarding the Northern Plains First Nations people.

11. Montreal Forum, Montreal, Quebec

Ice hockey fans will recognize the famous Montreal Forum as the former home to the NHL’s Montreal Canadiens. The arena, which was recognized in 1997, was also home to many concerts and other sporting events.

14. Head-Smashed-In-Buffalo Jump, Fort Macleod, Alberta

This historical site must have one of the most unique names in the world. It was recognized in 1968 and is one of the largest, best preserved, and oldest buffalo jumps in existence. In 1981 it also became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.